How Big Is a 13 Gallon Trash Can?

On this page (7 sections)

1. How big is a 13 gallon trash can in inches?
2. How much space does a 13 gallon trash can take up?
3. Is a 13 gallon can big enough for a kitchen?
4. What size trash bag fits a 13 gallon can?
5. Which details matter besides capacity?
6. How do you measure for a 13 gallon trash can?
7. Which 13 gallon trash can size should you choose?

A 13 gallon trash can holds about 50 liters and is usually around 25 inches tall. Its footprint varies by shape and model, so measure the spot where you plan to put it.

This capacity is common for kitchen waste, but “13 gallon” describes volume, not a standard outside size. A slim can and a wide rectangular can may hold about the same amount while fitting very differently.

How big is a 13 gallon trash can in inches?

A typical 13 gallon kitchen trash can is roughly 25 inches tall and about 15 to 17 inches wide and deep. Exact dimensions vary, so use the can’s stated measurements when checking a tight space.

For example, the Amazon Basics 13.2 Gal Soft-Close Can measures 14.8 x 16.7 x 25.9 inches. The EKO Madison 13.2 Gal Step Can measures 16.9 x 14.3 x 25.4 inches, while the EKO 13.2 Gal Sensor Can, Matte Stainless measures 15.5 x 10.6 x 24.6 inches.

These measurements show why it helps to compare all three dimensions rather than shopping by capacity alone. A narrower can may be easier to place in a walkway, while a wider one may need more clearance beside a counter.

For more help matching capacity to household needs, see what size trash can you need for a kitchen.

How much space does a 13 gallon trash can take up?

A 13 gallon trash can needs enough floor area for its footprint plus space to use the lid. Leave room for the lid to swing or lift, and check that handles, nearby doors, and cabinet fronts won't block it.

Measure the available width and depth at floor level. Then check vertical clearance beneath an overhang or shelf, especially for a lid that opens upward.

The sensor model in this guide is 10.6 inches wide and 15.5 inches long. Its narrower side may suit a tighter spot, but position it where you can approach the sensor without creating an obstacle in the kitchen.

If the can will sit inside a cabinet, measure the cabinet opening and interior rather than relying on the nominal capacity. Our guide to what size trash can fits inside a kitchen cabinet explains the measurements to check.

Is a 13 gallon can big enough for a kitchen?

A 13 gallon can is a common everyday kitchen size for a household that wants a full-size bin. Whether it suits your home depends on how much waste you produce, how often you take it out, and the space available.

A smaller household that empties trash often may prefer less capacity to save floor space. A busy household may find 13 gallons convenient, but food scraps and bulky packaging can fill any bin quickly.

The EKO Madison 13.2 Gal Step Can has a single compartment and can also be used as a recycling bin. Its 13.2 gallon capacity is close to the other cans here, so compare its 16.9 x 14.3 x 25.4 inch dimensions with your available space.

For a direct comparison of larger capacities, read 13 gallon vs 30 gallon trash bags. Bags and cans use different capacity labels, so check the actual dimensions and fit guidance before buying.

What size trash bag fits a 13 gallon can?

A 13 gallon bag is a sensible starting point for a can in this capacity range, but the fit depends on the can’s rim and the bag’s dimensions. A bag that matches the volume can still be too narrow to stretch over the rim or too short to fold over it.

Check the width and length of the bag, along with the can’s opening. If you use thicker bags or want extra overhang, compare measurements rather than choosing by gallon label alone.

The EKO sensor can uses a no-liner design, which the brand says offers 25% more room than a liner design. That feature may change how you use bags, so check whether your preferred bag style works with the can before choosing it.

See what size trash bags fit a kitchen trash can for a closer look at bag sizing and overhang.

Which details matter besides capacity?

Height, footprint, lid clearance, and opening style matter as much as the gallon figure when you choose a kitchen can. Pick the can that fits your room and your daily routine.

The Amazon Basics model has a manual foot pedal, a soft-close lid, a stay-open lid, and a removable inner bucket. The EKO Madison is also a step can, with a lid lock and a removable inner bucket with handles.

The EKO sensor can is 24.6 inches tall and opens with a motion sensor. Its matte stainless finish is fingerprint resistant, and it uses AA alkaline batteries.

If you're deciding between opening styles, the best kitchen trash cans with a foot pedal guide covers step cans. For a hands-free option, compare the best sensor trash cans for a kitchen.

How do you measure for a 13 gallon trash can?

Measure the width, depth, and height of the spot, then compare those figures with the can’s outside dimensions. Include lid movement and room to stand or step beside the can.

1. Measure the floor space where the base will sit.
2. Check the height up to any counter, shelf, or cabinet overhang.
3. Open nearby doors and drawers to see whether they would hit the can.
4. Leave enough approach space to use a pedal or sensor.
5. Confirm that the bag opening and inner bucket suit your preferred cleanup routine.

For a narrow kitchen, compare the width and depth before the height. See our guide to best narrow kitchen trash cans for options designed around tighter spaces.

Which 13 gallon trash can size should you choose?

For a 13 gallon trash can, choose by footprint and clearance first, then compare features. A model near 25 inches tall can still be too wide or deep for the space you have.

Choose the Amazon Basics can if its 14.8 x 16.7 inch footprint and soft-close step lid suit your spot. Consider the EKO Madison if you want a step can that can also serve as a recycling bin, or the EKO sensor can if its 10.6 inch width and touch-free opening work for your layout.

For more options at this capacity, browse the best 13 gallon trash cans for a kitchen. Measure your space before choosing, since 13 gallons does not guarantee a standard outside size.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is a 13 gallon trash can?

Many 13 gallon kitchen cans are about 25 inches tall, though the exact height depends on the model and lid. Check the full height, including the lid, against your counter overhang or cabinet clearance before choosing a spot.

Is a 13 gallon trash can the same as a 50 liter can?

They are close in capacity: 13 US gallons is about 49.2 liters, while many cans marketed as 13.2 gallons are labeled 50 liters. Capacity alone doesn't tell you the can's outside dimensions or how much room its shape takes up.

What size bag fits a 13 gallon trash can?

A 13 gallon bag is a common starting point for a 13 gallon kitchen can, but bag fit also depends on the rim width, can height, and how much extra material you want to fold over the edge. Check the can's fit guidance and compare the bag dimensions.

How much floor space does a 13 gallon trash can need?

It depends on the can's shape and dimensions. Rectangular models often take up a footprint around 15 by 17 inches, but some are narrower or deeper.

Measure the intended spot and leave room for the lid to open and for you to use the pedal or sensor.